Priorities - Joanna for Texas

Joanna’s priorities

Where I stand on the issues that matter most to our district.

We need more access to high-quality healthcare.

Expanding access to coverage

To get Texas families the medical coverage they need, I support expanding Medicaid and accessing the millions of federal dollars available under the Affordable Care Act. I also support increased funding for mental health services and facilities as well as strong oversight for state-contracted Medicaid service providers.

Protecting women’s reproductive rights

Women need access to affordable family planning services and healthcare exams. I oppose defunding Planned Parenthood and support a woman’s right to choose from a full range of pregnancy-related healthcare options, including abortion, delivered in a professional, non-judgmental, and compassionate way.

Endorsed by NARAL, #VOTEPROCHOICE

We need to invest in our public schools and educators.

I support reinstating state funding for our public schools, not voucher programs that undercut our kids’ education. Our teachers need to be paid adequately, receive properly funded pensions, and get access to affordable healthcare.

The impact of education touches every part of our district. To ensure good educational opportunities for all learners, no matter their age, I support investing in universal pre-K, free community college, and adult education programs to help fulfill immediate workforce needs.

Endorsed by the American Federation of Teachers, Texans for Public Education

We need common sense gun laws.

I support responsible gun ownership, and that includes increased background checks, safe storage campaigns, and a state-wide gun surrender policy to keep firearms out of the hands of violent offenders. I oppose legislation that places an undue burden on educators and students, from campus carry laws to marshall programs that disproportionately affect urban school districts.

Endorsed by Brady PAC, Everytown for Gun Safety, and Moms Demand Action

We need to end gerrymandering.

Fair participation in government starts with maps that ensure every voter has a voice, and I support the creation of an independent redistricting commission to end partisan gerrymandering in Texas. Constituents deserve the ability to choose their representatives—not the other way around.

Endorsed by Eric Holder’s National Democratic Redistricting Committee

We need to protect our state’s environmental future.

I support strengthening environmental regulations and empowering state regulators to hold businesses and corporations accountable for contaminating our land, air, and water. To protect our future, Texas needs environmental investments like green transportation, community parks, and smarter use of natural resources in urban environments.